Employees Provident Fund Organisation is gearing up for the launch of a new mobile application. Using this new application EPFO is aiming to improve how millions of salaried workers access their retirement savings. The app is expected to be launched on 1st April 2026.
What functions will the new app offer?
Importantly using the new application individuals would be allowed to withdraw eligible portions of their provident fund, directly into their bank accounts using UPI.
The mobile application will eliminate unnecessary paperwork and long waiting periods. Moreover it will modernise the whole process of accessing pension funds.
What changes will the app bring?
Under the proposed system, a portion of the EPF balance will remain locked to ensure retirement security, while the rest can be withdrawn instantly through the app. Officials said at least 25 percent of the total balance will stay frozen, allowing members to withdraw up to 75 percent under normal conditions. In cases of job loss, the remaining balance can be accessed only after a year, as per existing rules.
What is the status of this app development?
The labour ministry has already conducted trial runs using around 100 dummy accounts to test security and technical stability. Officials said the feedback from these trials has been encouraging.
UAN portal and UMANG app will continue to operate
Existing platforms like the UAN portal and UMANG app will continue to operate for other services such as passbook checks and profile updates. With more than 7.5 crore active contributors and a corpus nearing Rs 26 lakh crore, EPFO handles over five crore claims every year, and by enabling faster withdrawals, the government hopes to reduce pressure.
What was the way to access pension funds currently?
At present, EPFO members have to file claims online through the UAN portal or the UMANG app, even if they qualify for auto-settlement. Although the auto-settlement system has shortened the processing time to around three days for claims up to Rs 5 lakh, members still need to submit an application. The proposed UPI-based system is likely to remove this requirement for eligible withdrawals altogether.